Memorial Day is right around the corner, which means thousands of weekend captains are pulling the cover off their boats for the first time since fall. Lucas Oil’s marine-tech team has built a quick, no-nonsense checklist that helps boaters hit the water faster, avoid mid-season breakdowns and keep families safe all summer.
A Saturday-morning breakdown can cost hundreds in tow fees, but only a few dollars of preventive care keeps your summer on schedule. Lucas Oil has spent decades engineering marine-specific lubricants, fuels and appearance products used by offshore racers and weekend anglers alike.
1. Wash, Wax & UV-Shield
Salt, pollen and UV fade gel‑coat fast. After a hose‑down, mist Slick Mist® Marine Speed Wax across the hull, vinyl and glass for a slick finish and built‑in UV block – no buffing required. A clean hull isn’t just cosmetic – it prevents drag and early gel-coat failure.
2. Confirm Safety Gear
Count U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for every passenger, test nav lights and horn, and check extinguisher gauges – small steps that avoid big fines (and bigger hazards).
3. Safeguard the Fuel System
Ethanol attracts moisture and gums injectors. One quick dose of Lucas Marine Fuel Treatment cleans deposits and keeps water in suspension; top it off with Lucas Fuel Stabilizer if the boat will sit more than a couple of weeks.
4. Test Battery & Bilge
Verify the battery holds 12.6 V or better, clean terminals, and hit the bilge‑pump float switch and manual override to ensure they kick on instantly.
5. Fresh Oil = Cooler, Quieter Runs
Swap last season’s oil for Lucas 4-Stroke Marine Engine Oil SAE 25W-40 to cut friction, fight corrosion, and keep modern outboards in inboards whisper‑quiet.
6. Grease What Turns
From helm cables to trailer hubs, a few pumps of tacky Lucas Marine Grease will stop squeaks, shield bearings from splash, and keep the steering silky.
7. Prep the Tow Truck, Too
That heavy boat taxes the tow vehicle. Add Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer at the next oil change to bolster film strength, reduce temps and protect the engine on long hauls to the lake.
